Located in the heart of Vancouver, Washington, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site provides visitors with a glimpse into the past. From the iconic bastion to engaging living history demonstrations, the site is filled with stories that span centuries. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, there's always something new to discover. Here are some fun facts and highlights to inspire your next visit.
The Vancouver Barracks
Adjacent to the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, the Vancouver Barracks holds a significant position in the historic reserve. Established in 1849, the barracks were the first U.S. Army post in the Pacific Northwest. They played a critical role in regional development, serving as a base during westward expansion and, later, as a training ground for Buffalo Soldiers and service members during World War I and II. The year 2024 marked the 175th anniversary of the founding of Vancouver Barracks. Plus, don’t miss a stroll along Officers Row, a collection of preserved 19th-century homes where military officers once lived. Though managed by The Historic Trust rather than the National Park Service, it’s an important part of the area’s past.
The Bastion
One of the most recognizable features of Fort Vancouver is the towering bastion. This defensive structure, reconstructed to reflect its 19th-century appearance, served as a lookout and symbol of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s influence in the region. Climbing to its upper level offers visitors a glimpse into the past, complete with breathtaking views of the surrounding area, like Mt. Hood, on a clear day.
Living History
Step back in time as Fort Vancouver comes alive with living history interpreters scattered throughout the grounds, bringing the 1800s to life. Watch blacksmiths at work, sparks flying as they forge tools the old-fashioned way, or follow the tantalizing aromas of recipes being prepared in the 1840s kitchen. Special events add even more excitement, from fur trade reenactments to WWII-era displays, offering a dynamic look at the site’s long history. Demonstrations vary day-to-day, so call the Fort Vancouver Contact Station at (360) 816-6244 to check what’s happening during your visit, and don’t forget to explore the NPS events calendar!
The Fort Vancouver Garden
Take a moment to explore the Fort Vancouver Garden, a carefully recreated 19th-century plot of plants and flowers. The crops grown here consist of the same varieties that were cultivated by employees of the Hudson’s Bay Company. Today, these crops are harvested and used in the demonstration kitchen, creating a direct connection to the fort’s agricultural heritage. In the 1960s, the National Park Service began the reconstruction of Fort Vancouver and the garden, which includes smaller-scale replicas of the fort's original garden and orchards. Today, the garden is maintained by a dedicated team of volunteer gardeners and national park staff.
People of Fort Vancouver
Fort Vancouver’s history is a crossroads of cultures and communities. Indigenous peoples, Orkney Island laborers, Hawaiian sailors, African American Buffalo Soldiers, French Canadian voyageurs, and Midwest immigrants all contributed to its community. As a Hudson’s Bay Company trade hub, the Fort connected the Pacific Northwest to global markets, forging unique ties with the Hawaiian Kingdom. Goods like Hawaiian coral and Northwest salmon flowed between regions, leaving lasting cultural marks—lomi lomi salmon being one example. Most of the women at Fort Vancouver were American Indian or Métis wives of Company employees and played vital roles as translators, guides, fur processors, and homemakers while raising families. Ongoing archaeological discoveries continue to reveal the lives of the people who shaped this remarkable site. Learn more about the people at Fort Vancouver here.
Archaeology at Fort Vancouver
Fort Vancouver is more than just a window into the past—it’s an excavation into it! Beneath the surface lies a trove of artifacts that tell the story of the Hudson's Bay Company, Indigenous peoples, the U.S. Army, and more. With approximately two million objects in its collection, the site offers a glimpse into the daily lives of those who walked these grounds. Through Fort Vancouver’s Public Archaeology Program, visitors can experience this legacy firsthand. Special tours, educational programs, and lectures highlight the work of archaeologists and bring history to life. In 2022, the program’s Field School even uncovered evidence of Hudson’s Bay Company schoolhouses, adding a new chapter to the story of the Village. Learn more about the Archaeology at Fort Vancouver here!
Pearson Airfield
Just a short walk from the fort lies Pearson Airfield, one of the oldest continually operating airfields in the United States. Its story intertwines with the U.S. Army’s presence at Vancouver Barracks, and today, it celebrates aviation history with exhibits and events. Don’t miss this gem for a captivating glimpse into early flight. Head over on Tuesday through Saturday; admission is free.
Explore With the NPS App
Want a self-guided adventure? Download the National Park Service app for detailed tours of the site. It’s a perfect way to uncover hidden details and enrich your visit.